I found this speech in one of my old books that I was flipping through. I love finding these little treasures hidden within the pages.

Salutatory

“Members of the School Board, Friends, Parents, and Classmates:

To me has fallen the task of delivering the class “Salutatory.” Now please don’t be frightened by that long and dangerous sounding word for it really is quite harmless and my address will not be as long as its title might lead you to expect.

The Salutatory nearly overcame me when I discovered it had fallen to my lot; I did not see how one of my youthful years and ability could tackle as serious a subject but when I found that in common everyday English it meant that I was to welcome you to the exercises of this day, I gained courage.

And speaking frankly, I consider it one of the greatest honors and privileges life can bestow upon me to be the first pupil to perform this duty in this wonderful new school and now in behalf of the Eight Grade class I wish to welcome you to this program which marks the completion of our work in the grades.

You the patrons of this district and Board of Education we thank you most sincerely for making this modern school possible.

We hope today to show you something of what this school is doing for us and to prove that it is a “Bank of Learning” that gives you good interest on the… “

The note cuts off there. Not only is the penmanship beautiful, but the speech is eloquent as well. Very impressive for an 8th grade student!